Jenkins to lead new era at Albert Park

The Albert Park Falcons Football & Netball Club has announced David Jenkins as its new senior coach for the upcoming 2019 season.

Jenkins, who has played recently at North Shore Football Club and Fish Creek, will be a playing coach and brings with him a strong enthusiasm and commitment as the club aims to win its first-ever senior flag.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone at the club and can’t wait to get into pre-season,” he said.

“I’m really excited for the year ahead and with the game style I’m bringing to the club I’m hoping we’re going to be competitive.”

The Falcons were relegated after winning just one game in 2018 and finished ninth on VAFA Division 3 ladder.

The Falcons were established in 1954, formerly as the ANZ Bank, and have won four reserves flags in its history, but a senior flag has yet to make its way to Beaurepaire Pavilion in Albert Park.

“That is a major driver for us,” Club President Tyson Cattle said.

“For the football department, for the committee and for the playing group – everybody is keen to get into preseason and have a real crack in 2019.

“We are excited to announce the appointment of David and we are confident he can bring enthusiasm, organisation and motivation to the playing group, as well as assist us in player recruitment.”

The committee made the decision to pursue a player-coach in 2019 following from a disappointing 2018 campaign, but Cattle said it was onwards and upwards for the Falcons.

“There is a real buzz around the club at the moment,” he said.

“A new senior coach, an inaugural women’s team and the inclusion of the Melbourne Masters Football Club at our facilities, as well as financial stability within the club, has really energised the entire club.

“We are excited for 2019.”

• Albert Park FNC